The Wonders of Redeeming Love
By Payson
"I SHALL not wonder if you think me mad. I have been mad and I am just beginning to see my madness. Oh, how little zeal, how little love, have I manifested! How madly have I misimproved my time and talents! how wretchedly neglected the all-important work to which I am called; how ungratefully requited the best of Saviours! How often have I called his love and faithfulness in question, at the very time he was taking the best possible measures to promote my happiness; now he returns to humble me, and shame me for my folly and ingratitude. Oh, I know not how to bear this astonishing overwhelming goodness! Methinks I could bear his anger—but his love cuts me to the heart. Oh, that I may be dumb, and not open my mouth any more, since he is pacified toward me for all that I have done! Oh, that for the remainder of my life, I could hear of nothing, speak of nothing, but the wonders of his person, his character, and redeeming love! But unless he prevents, I shall wander again and act over, not only once, but often, my past sins. It seems now infinitely better to die, than be guilty of this; but he knows, and will do, what is best."—Payson.